Abstract: Research has suggested that elderly people who live with someone have better dietary adequacy, thus illustrating the important role of social interaction. This study evaluated the differences in dietary adequacy between independent and non-independent elderly (age 65 and older). Data were obtained from the National Food Consumption Survey (1987-1988) in which a National sample of individuals completed a three-day food consumption survey. Those who lived alone were classified as independent (n=316) and those who lived with someone were classified as non-independent (n=740) were included in the analysis. An analysis of covariance indicated that independent elderly had significantly lower intakes of calories, total fat, and cholesterol. Independent elderly had a higher intake of vitamins A, E, B6, ascorbic acid, and folacin. Independent elderly had a significantly lower intake of calcium, phosphorus, iron, and magnesium than their non-independent elderly counter parts (p